US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he has ordered a five-day pause on US military strikes targeting Iran’s power plants and energy infrastructure. He said the decision came after what he described as “very good and productive” diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran over the past 48 hours.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the discussions were “in-depth, detailed, and constructive.” He added that both sides are working towards a “complete and total resolution” of the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

“I have instructed the Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five-day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions,” the US President wrote.

US Pushes for Agreement With Iran

Later, while speaking to NBC, Trump stressed that the United States wants to reach a deal. “We are strongly determined to reach an agreement with Iran,” he said.

He also revealed that US officials are in contact with a senior figure in Iran, though not the supreme leader. According to reports, Trump said Iran must give up its enriched uranium stockpile. He added that the ongoing talks have “major points of agreement.”

However, Iranian media has rejected these claims. Reports said there have been no direct or indirect talks with Trump, as noted by Reuters.

Shift From Earlier Hardline Warning

This move marks a clear change in Trump’s approach. Just days earlier, he had issued a strong warning to Iran. He had threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s energy grid if Tehran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

This vital waterway carries nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply, making it crucial for global energy markets.

Iran Maintains Strong Position

Iran had responded firmly to Trump’s earlier threats. It warned that it would target energy sites across West Asia if its own infrastructure was attacked. At the same time, Iran continued launching missiles and drones at US allies in the Gulf region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also rejected the idea of a ceasefire.

“We are not seeking a cease-fire because we do not want this scenario to be repeated again after some time.”

Conflict Continues to Impact Region and Economy

The conflict has now entered its fourth week. It has already disrupted normal activity across the region. Flights have been halted in several Gulf countries. Global shipping routes have also faced disruptions.

The situation has raised serious economic concerns. The head of the International Energy Agency warned that the world economy is facing a “major, major threat.”